What They Do
Carpenters measure, saw, level and nail wood and other building materials. They install tile and insulation, acoustical ceilings, cabinets, siding and much more. They work with many tools and materials to build houses, erect skyscrapers, construct bridges, tunnels and highways. Carpenters make up the largest single group of skilled workers in the country.
Working Conditions
The typical workday for a carpenter begins early. He/she is often on the job site with a tool box before daybreak and he/she is hard at work before the sun is high in the sky. Much of the work is outdoors, but modern construction methods have eased the problems of the summer's heat and the winter's cold. The average carpenter usually wears a hard hat, tough, durable work clothes and safety shoes or sturdy high-top shoes.
Interest and Temperament
The carpenter should enjoy doing precision work, should have pride of craftsmanship, must be able to work without close supervision and be able to adapt to a wide variety of working conditions.
General Qualifications
- Minimum age of seventeen years
- Physically capable of performing the work of the trade
- Ability to read and working knowledge of basic mathematics
- Proficiency in the area of basic English
Educational Background Recommended
Good reading ability, working knowledge of basic math, machine shop, welding and blueprint reading.
Admission Requirements of the Joint Apprenticeship Committee
- "Intent to Hire" letter from a contractor who wishes to employ you
- Must be employed for a 90-day probationary period before acceptance in the apprenticeship program
Terms of Apprenticeship Training
- Length of apprenticeship - 4 years.
- Minimum of 144 hours of related classroom instruction per year
- Completion of 8,000 hours of work experience
Related Job Opportunities
Superintendent, estimator, contractor, teacher
Application and Information
Northeast Ohio Carpenters' Joint Apprenticeship Committee
4100 Maple Drive, Richfield, Ohio 44286
(330) 659-9495 or (800) 601-1800 telephone
(330) 659-6278 fax